Oranges, grapes, strawberries, and apples are among the fruits with the highest levels of pesticide residues, European experts warn. Specialists are particularly concerned about the so-called "cocktail effect," where the combination of several chemical substances can have a more dangerous impact on the body than each pesticide individually.
Dangerous "cocktail": experts named 4 popular fruits with the highest pesticide levels
These substances can pose a threat to children's health.
More than a quarter of fruits and vegetables sold in Europe contain residues of several pesticides. Each substance is safe individually, but their combination poses a threat, writes G4Food.
According to data from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and additional analysis by the organization "Pesticide Action Network" (PAN), the ranking of the most contaminated fruits is led by oranges, grapes, strawberries, and apples.
Currently, European legislation considers a product safe if each pesticide detected in it does not exceed individually established limits. However, environmental organizations warn that substances that seem harmless individually can become extremely toxic in combination.
EFSA is accused of not assessing the safety of such mixtures, although this is part of its responsibilities. The influence of this chemical "cocktail" is linked to an increased risk of developing certain diseases, particularly infertility and endocrine disorders.
The report also notes the presence of particularly dangerous substances in fruits, specifically chlorpyrifos and imidacloprid. As the publication pointed out, although some of them are already banned or strictly regulated, they still appear in databases, exceeding permissible limits.
The article states that these substances are neurotoxic and can seriously affect the brain development of fetuses and young children. In this regard, PAN Europe Executive Director Martin Dermin made a strong recommendation.
"We strongly advise parents to give their children only organic (bio) products, especially when it comes to fruits that are most prone to contamination," he said.
PAN Europe urges the European Food Safety Authority to urgently develop a method for assessing the combined effects of pesticides on human health. According to experts, only reducing permissible limits considering the "cocktail effect" will truly protect public health.
The editorial board believes that the issue of pesticides in food requires increasing attention from both producers and regulatory authorities. Experts remind that completely giving up fruits is not advisable, but it is important to wash products thoroughly, choose seasonal and organic options whenever possible, and pay special attention to children's nutrition.
